Allergies, Asthma and Dust Mites
One of the most common respiratory allergies is due to dust mites. Dust mite exposure may be a precursor to developing allergies and asthma in some children. Controlling indoor air pollutants is important in the control of an allergic and asthmatic responses. Studies prove that minimizing exposure to dust mites allergens throughout the home can lead to a decrease in allergic and asthmatic responses.
Controlling Dust Mites
Although dust mites can never be completely eliminated, they can be controlled.
- Encase your mattress and pillows in dust-proof or allergen impermeable covers (available from specialty supply mail order companies, bedding and some department stores).
- Wash all bedding and blankets once a week in hot water (at least 130 - 140°F) to kill dust mites.
- Replace wool or feathered bedding with synthetic materials and traditional stuffed animals with washable ones.
- If possible, replace wall-to-wall carpets in bedrooms with bare floors (linoleum, tile or wood).
- Use a damp mop or rag to remove dust. Never use a dry cloth since this just stirs up mite allergens.
- Use a dehumidifier or air conditioner to maintain relative humidity at about 50% or below.
- Use a vacuum cleaner with either a double-layered microfilter bag or a HEPA filter to trap allergens that pass through a vacuum's exhaust.
- The IQAir® HealthPro Series is also very effecient at removing any airborne particles that may result from vacuum exhaust.
Complete elimination of dust mites is unlikely. Reducing populations is the only likely way to reduce allergens in the air. Reducing humidity in the home by using a dehumidifier may help reduce populations, but reducing humidity levels in microclimates, such as in bed fibers or carpet fibers, is impossible. Chemical control is not necessary, nor will it have a lasting effect on dust mite populations. Regular cleaning and vacuuming will have a greater impact.